Cycling is promoted for a variety of reasons including keeping fit, helping the environment, reducing road congestion, etc. The Government aims to increase the number of cyclists using their bikes as a mode of transport rather than just purely for leisure.
As a road user, cyclists must show consideration to other road users and obey the rules in the Highway Code. In the Department for Transport's document Tomorrow's Roads – Safer for Everyone, it shows that a commitment be given to provide local publicity to promote considerate driving and safer cycling. The document states that "like pedestrians, cyclists must take some responsibility for their own safety and their behaviour towards other road users".
In Scotland, during 2000, there were 879 pedal cycle casualties. Of those 175 were fatal or serious. 89% of these accidents were on built up roads.
The sections below provide advice to cyclists on ways to keep safe.